Resilient Voices: Healing from Trauma through Art Therapy in Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak

Abstract

Young Adult Literature (YAL) holds a profound significance in shaping the valuesand outlook of adolescents by offering them an indispensable bridge between theirown experiences and the broader world. Through relatable characters andcompelling narratives, YAL helps young adults to confront their own challenges andfind the strength to overcome them. In addition, YAL also offers therapeutic valuesto adolescents by addressing a wide range of emotional, psychological, and social issues. Laurie Halse Anderson’s groundbreaking novel Speak crafts a powerfulnarrative that embodies the essence of Young Adult Literature’s role in the lives ofadolescents. The work narrates the gripping tale of Melinda Sordino, a high schoolfreshman who is raped at the summer party. Because of the traumatic event of rape,she lost her voice and suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD). Sheblames herself for the rape and suffers from guilt consciousness and suicidalthoughts, even though it is not her fault. Through Melinda’s experiences, thenarrative masterfully explores the multifaceted effects of trauma on an individual’spsyche by shedding light on the intricate interplay between emotional wounds andthe healing process. The study explores the ways in which the author portraysMelinda’s struggle to find her voice, reclaim her identity, and navigate the path torecovery. Through Melinda’s journey, the work adeptly addresses the themes ofisolation, identity, self-discovery, and the recovery process. This study seeks toexamine the multifaceted effects of trauma experienced by the protagonist.Furthermore, the study attempts to unravel trauma victim’s transformative healingprocess through an in-depth exploration of effective coping mechanisms andstrategies.